On Thursday, February 12, The University of Montana celebrated its 116th birthday with Charter Day festivities. The Office of Alumni Relations mingled with students in the UC atrium during the lunch hour, offering birthday cupcakes in honor of the day. The talented UM Brazilian Percussion Ensemble entertained us with their lively beats and exciting rhythms.
Later in the evening, we convened in the UC ballroom for the annual Charter Day awards ceremony and reception. This year we recognized an impressive roster of University and Missoula community members, including:
William E. Jones, Montana Alumni Award;
Jessie Davie, ASUM Student Service Award;
James and Joy Mariska, Neil S. Buckley Presidential Service Award;
Professor Jean Luckowski, Montana Faculty Service Award;
Professor Phil Condon, Robert T. Pantzer Presidential Humanitarian Award;
Regents Professor Jakki Mohr, George M. Dennison Presidential Faculty Award for Distinguished Accomplishment;
and our own Jodi Moreau, George M. Dennison Presidential Staff Award for Distinguished Accomplishment.
All in attendance enjoyed a brilliant performance by the UM Symphony Orchestra. Provost Engstrom presided over the ceremony, President Dennison provided the address and Missoula Mayor John Engen attended to proclaim February 12, 2009 as The University of Montana Day. Afterwards, award recipients joined family, friends and colleagues for a festive reception and a rousing win for the Lady Griz basketball team (75-48 against Sacramento State) in the President’s Box at Dahlberg Arena. It was truly a day to celebrate our University and honor those who have helped it to succeed for these one hundred and sixteen years!
Kelsey Crawford ‘07
On-Campus Events Coordinator
